24/7 mental health service launched

A new round-the-clock mental heath text service has been set up to help struggling people in Birmingham and Solihull.

A 24/7 all-age service has been launched to help people experiencing anxiety, stress, loneliness, depression, or other mental health challenges.

It is a partnership between Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust and Shout, the UK’s first 24/7 text messaging support service, powered by the charity Mental Health Innovations.

People can text ‘Space’ to 85258 and be connected with a trained mental health professional at any time and anywhere.

NHS bosses said the service is designed to be discreet and accessible, particularly for those who may not feel ready to speak on the phone or in person. In addition to providing support, texters can be signposted to a range of local mental wellbeing and mental health services, including Talking Therapies, Crisis Cafés, and NHS 111 Option 2.

This service aims to support and reduce pressure on services by offering an alternative route to support – especially for those waiting for further help or seeking early intervention.

Roísìn Fallon-Williams, Chief Executive of Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Building on the range of services that are currently available, this localised approach offers a truly accessible first step for people who may not yet feel ready or able to talk face-to-face or over the phone.

“It also reflects our commitment to delivering the NHS Long Term Plan by empowering people to take control of their mental wellbeing and mental health early and reducing the risk of crisis.”

Caroline Westley, Director of Income at Mental Health Innovations, added: “We’re proud to partner with Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust to bring this vital service to local people.

“Texting offers a discreet and approachable way to seek help, and by integrating Shout’s clinical model into local services, we can help ease pressure on 111 and in-person support while ensuring no one has to face a mental health challenge alone.”

When someone texts ‘Space’ to 85258 they will receive four automated messages before being connected to one of Shout’s qualified mental health professionals.

Once connected, the mental health professional will listen empathetically, provide support and signpost to local services where appropriate. The Shout service is free, anonymous, and does not appear on phone bills.

Users do not need to register, download an app, or use mobile data.

The partnership enables local NHS partners to meet NHS England’s advisory specifications for implementing a 24/7 crisis text message service, integrated with their local services, including the 111 phone service provision.